Backup Max Wittex started the team's final game of the regular season - a loss to Notre Dame - but the team expressed hope Barkley could return in time for the postseason.

"He hasn't gone to a bowl game the last couple years, so it's a chance to go to one and finish off strong for him and for the senior class," USC coach Lane Kiffin said earlier this month. "It's a great opportunity for us."

If he cannot play, it would cap a disappointing ending for Barkley after skipping on the NFL to return for his senior season.

He was considered the favorite for the Heisman Trophy and USC entered the preseason ranked No. 2 after completing a two-year postseason ban imposed by the NCAA.

But Barkley struggled with 15 interceptions in 11 games, and the Trojans finished 7-5.